Sudarshan Kriya is a breathing technique that is being practiced by millions across 156 countries. It has helped people from all walks of life to find relief from stress, improve their health and transform their lives. Whether you are contemplating learning it or have already learned it, you can know more about this powerful breathing technique on this page. Get answers to the most commonly asked questions about Sudarshan Kriya.

  1. What is Sudarshan Kriya?

Sudarshan Kriya is a rhythmic breathing technique that brings harmony to the body, mind, and emotions. It removes stress, anger, and depression and boosts energy levels.

  1. How to learn Sudarshan Kriya?

Enroll in Happiness Program or an Online Meditation & Breath Workshop to learn the Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique.

  1. What does science say about Sudarshan Kriya?

100+ independent studies show the role of Sudarshan Kriya in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. The breathing technique has also been proven to improve sleep quality, increase immune function, and reduce blood pressure.

  1. Who found Sudarshan Kriya and how?

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar cognized the technique after observing a ten-day silence in Shimoga, Karnataka. Here are 8 facts about Sudarshan Kriya from Gurudev himself.

  1. Should people with certain health issues avoid it?

It is mandatory to share your health issues with your program trainer. So that they can recommend the modulations to the practice that are well-suited for you. People with schizophrenia avoid practicing it. A gentler and more powerful meditation practice called Sahaj Samadhi Dhyan is more effective in such cases.

  1. Is Sudarshan Kriya a meditation?

Sudarshan Kriya is not meditation. It is a rhythmic breathing technique that helps you reach a meditative state of mind.

  1. Is Sudarshan Kriya safe?

Sudarshan Kriya is absolutely safe when learned under the guidance of a trained professional. Researchers at Yale & BIDMC (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center) have published about the efficacy of the breathing technique as a stress management tool.

  1. Can I download Sudarshan Kriya?

No, Sudarshan Kriya is not to be downloaded. After you join the Online Meditation & Breath Workshop, you will learn its short format that you can practice at home on your own. You can practice along with the recorded breathing instructions for the long Sudarshan Kriya in the workshop and weekly follow-ups under the supervision of a trained professional. 

  1. Is Sudarshan Kriya alone complete for physical and mental health?

Sudarshan Kriya has numerous physical and mental health benefits. However, simple yogic exercises can greatly enrich your Sudarshan Kriya experience.

  1. When can we do Sudarshan Kriya?

It is advised to practice Sudarshan Kriya when the stomach is more or less empty. Doing Kriya takes you into meditation. When you meditate, the metabolic rates of your body fall quite dramatically. For digestion, you need high metabolism. So Kriya shouldn’t be done right after a meal. Wait until your stomach feels light, then do it.

  1. Can Sudarshan Kriya be done twice a day?

Sudarshan Kriya is usually recommended to practice only once a day. In special circumstances like excess fatigue, your teacher may advise you to practice it twice a day as well.

  1. Will Sudarshan Kriya increase my concentration in my studies?

Yes, Sudarshan Kriya has been proven to reduce stress and increase concentration. A Yale study shows that the technique improves the mental health of students.

  1. Can I immediately get up after doing Sudarshan Kriya?

After kriya, stay sitting with your eyes closed and relax. After about 10 minutes of sitting, you may lie down if you wish to and rest for another 5 to 10 minutes. You can also meditate using your Sahaj Samadhi mantra after the kriya.

  1. Is Sudarshan Kriya religious?

Sudarshan Kriya is not religious. People from diverse faiths practice this technique and experience its mental and physical benefits.

  1. Why are fees charged for the course?

The donation fees are one way to ensure you show up for every day of the workshop and are able to experience the full benefits of the course. The fees are used for the running expenses of the workshop and for the various service initiatives of The Art of Living.

  1. Can a pregnant woman do Sudarshan Kriya?

No, pregnant women are not recommended to practice Sudarshan Kriya. They can practice Sahaj Yoga Meditation.

  1. Can Sudarshan Kriya be done at night?

It is recommended to practice Sudarshan Kriya before dinner. Practicing late at night can raise your energy levels and prevent you from falling asleep.

  1. Is it normal to cry during Sudarshan Kriya?

Yes, crying during Sudarshan Kriya is normal. Crying during kriya is a way for pent-up emotions to get released. 

  1. What is the difference between Kriya Yoga and Sudarshan Kriya?

Kriya Yoga is a meditation technique by Paramhansa Yogananda. Sudarshan Kriya is a rhythmic breathing technique cognized by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Both are different techniques with different benefits.

  1. How many calories are burnt in Sudarshan Kriya?

Sudarshan Kriya does not make you lose a fixed number of calories. It helps to restore the balance in your body.

Vanditaa Kothari loves to write. That is one art that is as soothing to her soul as warm, delectable soup in North Indian freezing winters. Another one is meditation. Catch her doing both at The Art of Living International Headquarters in Bengaluru.